Hempstead Elementary celebrates Black History Month

Laurie Bettis

Published
6:00 pm CST, Wednesday, March 3, 2004

The theme for this year's program was "Black History Month - Celebrating A Rich Heritage."

The event, coordinated by Mia Hall, included a wide variety of celebrations and tributes performed by students and teachers. The program opened with everyone singing the Negro National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing."

Following the tribute to Miss Jane Pittman, a group of fourth-grade students entertained the assembly with a tribute to Jackie Robinson. Trechel Momon demonstrated in slow motion how Jackie Robinson became known for stealing home. Herman Stubblefield, HHS senior, shared his rap song "I thank Momma" as the HMS students gave guests a sneak preview of one of the acts from their program.

Special guests for the day included the 290 Trail Riding Club. Diane Long gave a history of the club, which was formed in 1897 when a few riders had a dream to have a family club. Long explained that students must maintain their grades to participate in any of the trailriding events as she stressed, "Anything worth doing is worth working for."

Mr. George Lewis and Mr. Mosley showed the students some of the gear that they use on their horses as they explained each of them. Mr. Mosley and his daughter danced for the crowd to show a sample of the kind of music they listen to on the trail ride.

The assembly ended with a performance by HES Teacher's Choir of Umoja (Umoja = Unity). They worked their way through the crowd singing "Happy Birthday To You" and sprinkling confetti.